Sharing tips for going plastic free in July and always in Moonee Valley

A DECISION to reduce waste has lead to some surprising life improvements for one advocate for change in Melbourne’s inner northwest.

Erin Rhoads, pictured at The Source Bulk Foods in Moonee Ponds, has found her commitment to reducing waste has helped build community ties and given her a stronger sense of wellbeing. Picture: George Salpigtidis

GOING plastic-free has been “all positive” for one Moonee Valley change advocate.

Erin Rhoads says she was not always an “eco-greenie” but a decision to reduce her waste several years ago has brought improvements in all aspects of her life.

Making the switch from the big supermarkets — where excess packaging and plastics are hard to avoid — to farmers’ markets and local wholefoods shops, has brought stronger community connections and a stronger sense of wellbeing she said.

“Being involved with the community makes me happier ... it’s nice to know who grows my food, or who made my bread,” Ms Rhoads said.

While it might take some time to make the swap to more mindful and environmentally-friendly shopping, Ms Rhoads said the prospect of increasing plastic pollution in our oceans and food helped sharpen her focus.

“If we don’t start reducing the amount of plastic we use the oceans will have more plastic than fish in them by 2050,” she said.

Ms Rhoads will be sharing her tips and tricks and encouraging Moonee Valley residents to challenge themselves to take on a Plastic Free July at a workshop, 10am-12.30pm, Friday, July 14 at the Farnham Street Neighbourhood Learning Centre, 28 Farnham St, Flemington.

The Inner West Plastic Bag Free group will be on hand with instructions on how to make beeswax wraps as an alternative to cling wrap.

Book a place at mvcc.vic.gov.au/enviroevents